Marydale Retreat Center at 945 Donaldson Hwy, Erlanger, KY 41018 US - Spring Newsletter
| Spring Newsletter |
The last snows of winter are melting outside my window and the beginning of a new season of life and growth always seems to be a time to consider what has happened in the past year and to look forward with great expectations for the new year. Marydale is no exception in this regard and as we reach the mid-point in our Lenten journey, we pause to remember some of the more noteworthy events of this past year and our prospects for the future. 2003 was a year of significant change for Marydale. We were fortunate to be able to continue Marydale's storied tradition by hosting nearly 100 excellent retreats this past year which provided opportunities to over 3,900 adults and high school students to draw closer to our loving God. We also completed some much needed technology upgrades this year, including our new web site. But at the same time we were saddened by the loss of several of our staff at mid-year and our pool closed for the first summer since its opening in 1968. In fact, because of the estimates we received for repairs, we will be demolishing the pool shortly in favor of building a new pool as soon as is practical. We were also compelled to cancel our widely acclaimed senior programs last summer. However, as the summer approaches, we are excited to be able to again offer our legendary one day Senior Programs as well as make our picnic grounds available for rent. The really good news is that, by the grace of God and the steadfast support and encouragement of Bishop Foys, we have survived and we look forward to 2004 with great anticipation and excitement. Our new stafff are talented, energetic and extremely enthusiastic. Many thanks to Dana and Karen Thompson, who served as House Managers for a brief period. Over a 3 month time, they were able to complete many repairs and improvements to the facilities and grounds. Mary Jo Marcum, our Food Service Manager, has developed a menu for the dining room this year that promises to surpass her legendary offerings of the past. Reportedly, she is blending her best recipes from years gone by with some new surprises that are sure to please. When you call in, you may hear the voice of our new Registrar, Jenny Kunst. Jenny is hard at work on new programs to improve our registration process and record keeping and she is also planning on some great additions to the web site. Rosie Werner, our long time Business Manager, is evaluating new accounting software that will be installed by the first of July. Finally, I am excited to announce that Larry and Vicki Rammel will be joining us as our new House Managers by the end of March. I hope you can tell that we are all working diligently to make your retreat experience this year the best ever. As always, we remain committed to providing you with a place of Christian renewal, a peaceful, restful atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection to assist you in living out the message of Christ's Good News. if you would like to make a significant change in your life, please come and see us this year. In Christ's Service and Yours, Deacon Paul Yancey
